Lawler vs. Cerrone Set for UFC 213

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One of the most exciting cancelled fights of the last year is being rebooked. Former welterweight champion Robbie Lawler, who has been missing in action since July, will return to the cage against Donald "Cowboy" Cerrone at UFC 213 in July.

ESPN’s Bret Okamoto first reported that the fight was a done deal according to UFC President Dana White.

Lawler (27-11,12-5 UFC) was at the top of the division at this time last year. After winning the UFC belt in 2014, he defended it twice in two all-time classic fights against Rory MacDonald and Carlos Condit.

His title reign came to an end at UFC 201 in July of last year, where he was knocked out by current champion Tyron Woodley in the first round.

Cerrone (32-8, 19-5 UFC) moved up to the welterweight division in 2016 and put together an impressive four fight winning streak, finishing Alex Oliveira, Patrick Cote, Rick Story and Matt Brown. His first setback at 170 lbs. came in January, when he was stopped by Jorge Masvidal in the second round.

Last year Lawler and Cerrone had been briefly booked against each other for a fight at UFC 205 in New York City in November. However, Lawler pulled out of the fight shortly after it was announced.

He’ll return after nearly a full year off in a matchup that is guaranteed to produce fireworks. UFC 213 takes place on July 8 in Las Vegas as part of the UFC’s International Fight Week.